Got a yen for recycled rubber? Look no further than Made With Love. Their recycled rubber bracelets, as well as other accessories, are made by craftswomen in Africa, Brazil, and Haiti. The women are paid fairly for their work and the profits are donated to charities that support women and children in all three countries.
The initiative was kick-started in 2007 by Mary Jane Marcasiano, a designer whose own work has been highlighted in such lines as Cole Haan and Saks Fifth Avenue. Her Made With Love organization works through the non-profit Cygnet Foundation that supports programs that feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, and provide day care and education and training programs.
Coldplay's Chris Martin caught the recycled rubber bracelet bug when he wore them from 2008 to 2010 on his Viva La Vida Tour. He also had kiosks set up during the tour to sell the products. All the proceeds directly supported Made With Love.
The recycled rubber bracelets retail for a set of 18 at $28. They come in an array of different colors. You can purchase them on their web site or at these Connecticut retailers:
Capri, Fairfield
Suzie Creamcheese, Westport
Whyevernot, Mystic
Wish List, Greenwich